Alastair Cook delighted to see Kevin Pietersen back

Wednesday, November 14, 2012
10:00 AM

England captain Alastair Cook welcomed Kevin Pietersen back into the fold after his controversial absence over the summer.

The South African born batsman was dropped over sending ‘provocative texts’ to opposition players during England’s 2-0 series loss to South Africa.

“It’s good to have him back,” Cook said. “He’s a guy who can change games very quickly, like he did in Columbo, and he can win matches for us.

“Not many people can do that. The process, or whatever you want to call it, has finished and he’s moving on.

“It’s great to have Kev back. The whole side have adapted the situation that’s happened over the last few months and we’ve drawn a line under it and moved on. He’s moved on and the lads have moved on.

“I just want to concentrate on what’s important, which is playing cricket.

“What I don’t want to change is his confidence and his swagger because that’s what makes him such a great player.

“As a captain, that’s what you want.”